Gavin Pretor-Pinney

The Cloudspotter’s Guide

The Science, History, and Culture of Clouds

$20.00

  • Published in June 2007 by the Perigee Trade.

  • 320 pages.

  • Softcover edition in English.

The Cloudspotter’s Guide is a quirky, beautiful book that looks at each type of cloud, shares a few facts, and dives into eclectic stories.

An open book featuring a page with a question about clouds, next to a blank page and watercolor art. The book displays a bright blue sky with white clouds.

Look Up to the Sky!

The Cloudspotter’s Guide is a quirky, beautiful book by author Gavin Pretor-Pinney that introduces types of cloud with facts and eclectic stories about each one. Clouds are a source of endless inspiration for watercolor. Understanding the nuances and science of the clouds can enrich our appreciation and understanding of ephemeral skies.

Illustrated with beautiful line art, and filled with photographs, diagrams, and drawings, Gavin plots the history and science of clouds, inviting artists and nature-appreciators alike to raise their gaze and indulge in the beautiful, often dramatic expanses above us.

“ I’ve always loved looking at clouds. Nothing in nature rivals their variety and drama; nothing matches their sublime, ephemeral beauty. “
—Gavin Pretor-Pinney
A man stands outdoors holding a large, fluffy cloud cutout on a stick. He has a content expression and is wearing a blue sweater over a collared shirt, with fields and a blue sky in the background.

About the Author

Gavin Pretor-Pinney is an author, renowned journalist, and cloud enthusiast based in West London and Somerset. Gavin founded the Cloud Appreciation Society in 2004, which now has 47,000 members in 120 countries. Whether through speaking or in writing, Gavin shares his passion for the natural wonders of the world through a scientific lens, inspiring readers to tune into the joys of the mundane.

Other works by Gavin Pretor-Pinney include The Cloud Collector’s Handbook, A Wavewatcher’s Companion, and A Cloud A Day.

Learn about Gavin’s organization on the Cloud Appreciation Society’s website.

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